Botanical Journal: Cherry Blossom

Botanical Name: Prunus
Blooms Locally: Late March, Early April

The cherry blossom tree is native to Japan where it is known as "sakura", a symbol of renewal and hope. Those of us in the DC area likely have memories of going to see the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin as a yearly spring tradition. Viewing the cherry blossoms is a custom that dates back hundreds of years. In Japan, they call this "hanami", which means "flower viewing" and specifically refers to afternoons spent sitting under the cherry blossoms during peak bloom. These trees are easy-going and quick to grow, which makes them a great option for landscaping and gardens locally. They require full sun and are self-pollinating, so it is ideal to plant 2 or 3 together, 10-20 feet apart.

Cherry blossom branches have a particularly graceful arch to them that we adore using in large arrangements. They aren't as crooked or jagged as your usual tree branch, which is something special when it comes to making elegant, large-scale arrangements

Photos by Becca Olcott

Botanical Journal: Hellebore

Botanical Name: Helleborus orientalis
Grows locally: early-mid March

Commonly known as the hellebore, it is the perfect antidote for the end-of-winter blues and a true testament to resilience through the harshest of circumstances. These perennials tend to emerge during the last stretch of winter and the first breath of spring. Even if tackled by that rogue March snowstorm, they usually pop back up at the first sight of a warm, sunny day. These gals love to grow in clumps, and they are a dream for the novice gardener since they are shade and drought tolerant as well as evergreen, to keep your garden looking lush through the winter months.

Hellebore is a staple in our bouquets and arrangements because the gradient of the petals acts as a perfect transition for most of our wedding color palettes. They come in an array of purples, pinks and burgundys, and we particularly love the way they elegantly drape forward, adding poignant lines to any arrangement. We would describe the hellebore as strong and austere. She commands respect by nature of being so tenacious.

Photos by Becca Olcott